NBA Trade: Paul George working out with Kobe Bryant this summer; Will he join the Lakers?

Paul George is definitely aware of the trade rumors linking him to his hometown team, Los Angeles Lakers. Multiple reports claimed that the Indiana Pacers star is seriously considering playing for the purple and gold. However, as of now, it remains a mystery whether the “Paul George to Lakers” will happen this summer or in 2018 free agency.

In an appearance on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”, George talked about the possibility of playing for the Lakers. The 27-year-old small forward told Kimmel that Magic Johnson’s comments won’t have an effect on him this summer. Johnson has openly expressed his desire to bring George to Los Angeles since becoming the Lakers president of basketball operations.

“I love Magic,” George said. “Great dude. I’m always going to get those ties. I’m an L.A. kid. Actually, Kobe is like the biggest person in my house. Not even me.”

Paul George working out with Kobe Bryant this summer

Kimmel asked George whether he already talked to Kobe Bryant about coming to the Lakers. The Pacers star gave a negative response and revealed that he plans on working out with Bryant this summer. This will the first time George will workout with the Lakers legend and said that he wants to pick his brain a little bit.

He admitted being “absolutely” nervous in facing Bryant this summer and joked that he’s already training to get ready for the workout. Bryant will undeniably help George improve his game on both ends of the floor. In the ongoing playoffs, several NBA superstars reached out the future Hall of Famer, including Russell Westbrook, Isaiah Thomas, and Gordon Hayward.

Bryant may have decided to end his NBA career but he continues to share his knowledge with the young players as much as he can. Aside from George, Lakers forward Brandon Ingram will also workout with Bryant to learn the “Mamba Mentality.”

Paul George signing massive contract extension with Indiana Pacers

From the beginning of the interview until the end, Kimmel has only one message for Paul George – “Come to the Lakers.” However, the Pacers star decided to remain loyal to his current team and told Kimmel “I love Indy, though.” Still, until he signs the contract extension with the Pacers, George will continue to be part of trade rumors.

On Thursday, the league will announce the All-NBA First, Second and Third Teams. If George will be named to an All-NBA team, the Pacers will have a big advantage in retaining him this summer. It will give them the ability to offer him a five-year, $207 million extension.